Packers CEO makes feelings clear on franchise hiring ex-Jets HC Robert Saleh

The Green Bay Packers raised a few eyebrows by hiring former New York Jets coach Robert Saleh in a 'fluid' role nearly two weeks after he was let go by the franchise.

The Packers are 6–2 heading into Week 9, but it appears there was some room for improvement on the offensive side of the ball. In a Q&A session with fans ahead of a divisional showdown with the Detroit Lions, Packers CEO Mark Murphy had a few things to say about Saleh joining the franchise.

"I was very supportive of Matt [LaFleur] hiring him. They have a long history together and I think it will be good for Robert and us. He will work primarily with our offense. Given his background as a defensive coach, he will be very helpful in terms of how teams will try to stop our offense," Murphy said.

NFL: New York Jets at Minnesota Vikings - Source: Imagn

Saleh ultimately left with a 20–36 record during his three-plus seasons with the franchise.

Robert Saleh's history with Packers HC Matt LaFleur

Saleh and LaFleur's connection goes back to 2004 when they worked together at Central Michigan University as graduate assistants.

Four years later, when Saleh was on Gary Kubiak's staff with the Houston Texans, he reportedly urged him to hire LaFleur as an offensive assistant. LaFleur's brother Mike was also an offensive coordinator with the Jets in 2021-22, a role now officially occupied by Nathaniel Hackett (though Todd Downing has been calling plays since Saleh's exit).

Saleh and LaFleur's professional relationship was also in the limelight when the New York Jets negotiated for Aaron Rodgers with the Packers. Per ESPN, during those talks, Saleh and LaFleur mutually decided to let the general managers hash it out to preserve their working relationship.

Saleh's career now comes full circle in Green Bay.

LaFleur also explained to ESPN why Saleh wasn't helping out on the defensive side of the ball, considering his reputation around the league as a defensive mastermind.

"Having a defensive mind talking offense and helping us with things he might be able to see, kind of similar scheme stuff, things the defense might be looking for, it helps," LaFleur told ESPN.

"I think he's got an elite defensive mind. But that's why I want him on the offensive side, so he can help us attack the defenses."

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